When lighting a Hanukkah candle, the most important element is the design and appearance of the candle itself. Although the tradition of Hanukkah candles has become increasingly standardized, it is still possible to find a type of candle that best represents the values that are being highlighted when lighting them. A Hanukkah candle consists of a large primary candle, often referred to as the shamash, along with 8 smaller candles, often referred to as the chanukah lights.
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What Does A Hanukkah Candle Look Like?
A Hanukkah candle is often described as “tall and straight,” similar to a menorah. It has a stem which is a strong base that gives stability to the candle. The stem varies in size and height but is usually about 8-10 inches tall. On top of the stem is the candle cup, which can be either round or star-shaped and holds the melted wax. The four places for the Shamash and the Chanukah lights are also engraved near the stem of the candle.
Shamash
The most important and central candle on the Hanukkah candle is the Shamash. This is the “servant” candle which is larger than the other eight candles and is used to light each of the eight Chanukah lights. It is known as the “guardian” of the flame and can be any color or may have a special design to make it stand out from the other flames.
Chanukah Lights
The eight Chanukah lights which surround the Shamash represent the eight days of Hanukkah when oil was miraculously burned in the temple. The Chanukah lights come in many different shapes and sizes, but they are all cylindrical and made of wax. They are often yellow in color and may have symbols, like the Star of David, on them. The Chanukah lights are lit one at a time, from left to right, starting with the Shamash.
Other Types Of Candles
Although the traditional Hanukkah candle is described above, there are many other types of candles available to celebrate the holiday. For example, there are special candles for each day of the holiday that have more intricate decorations. Candles may also be mass-produced or handmade in various colors to match the design of a room or incorporate special symbols.
No matter what type of Hanukkah candle is chosen, the tradition of lighting the eight Chanukah lights to represent the miracle of light is the same. Each Hanukkah candle is unique and special in its own way, making each experience distinct. The design of the candle honors the Jewish faith and celebrates a special time each year.
When lighting Hanukkah candles, the most important part is the joy of celebrating with friends and family. This magical time of eating sufganiyot, enjoying music, and telling the story of the Maccabees is enjoyed all over the world and has a unique impact on each family or individual.
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Last update 2023-11-27. Price and product availability may change.